Cricket

Rajat Patidar's underwhelming debut series against England has sparked speculation about his future in the Indian Test team. With just 63 runs in three matches, the middle-order batter has failed to live up to expectations. However, despite Patidar's struggles, South African legend AB de Villiers believes the Indian team will give him a longer rope.De Villiers, who played alongside Patidar in the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise, praised the Indian team's culture of supporting players through lean patches. He pointed out that India's strong performances in the series have created a buffer for Patidar, allowing him to survive despite his lack of runs."Rajat Patidar not having the series of a lifetime or the one to remember. But the good thing about this Indian team and the culture is that you will survive in that side because of the great cricket they are playing and the results coming their way," de Villiers said on his YouTube channel.De Villiers also highlighted Patidar's positive attitude and likability as factors that could influence the team management's decision to retain him. "If Patidar's attitude is catchy and if he is a likable character in the dressing room, Rohit and the selection panel will have the ability to say, 'Hold on, we do believe this guy has a future and we see him as a part of the team moving forward. Even though he hasn't been scoring runs, let's give him a longer run'," said the former South Africa captain.Former India opener Aakash Chopra also weighed in on Patidar's inclusion for the final Test, predicting his inclusion in the XI. "I think Rajat Patidar will play the fifth Test match. I think he will get another chance," Chopra said on his YouTube channel.The fifth and final India-England Test begins from March 7. Patidar will be hoping to make a significant contribution and prove his worth to the Indian team.

Ireland etched their name in cricketing history on Friday, securing their maiden Test victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. This historic triumph marked Ireland's first Test win in their eighth outing in the traditional format.Captain Andy Balbirnie led the charge with an unbeaten 58, guiding Ireland to a six-wicket victory in the final session of the third day. Chasing a modest target of 111, Ireland overcame an early wobble to seal the historic win.Afghanistan resumed their second innings on 134-3 but were dismissed for 218. Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi top-scored with 55, while debutant Rahmanullah Gurbaz contributed 46. Mark Adair emerged as the star performer with the ball, claiming eight wickets in the match, including three in the second innings. Craig Young and Barry McCarthy also chipped in with three wickets each.Ireland's chase got off to a shaky start as they lost three wickets for just 13 runs. However, Balbirnie stood firm, anchoring the innings with a composed half-century. Lorcan Tucker provided valuable support with an unbeaten 27, forming a crucial 72-run partnership with Balbirnie.The victory was a testament to Ireland's resilience and determination. Having played their first Test in 2018, they have now achieved a significant milestone in their cricketing journey. The two teams will now face off in three one-day internationals and three T20 games as part of their multi-format series.

Shubman Gill's resurgence in the ongoing Test series against England is a testament to his mental fortitude and ability to adapt to new challenges. After a lean patch spanning nine innings and the pressure of adjusting to the unfamiliar No. 3 slot, Gill has emerged as a key player for India, contributing significantly to the team's success with a string of impressive performances.Gill's transformation can be attributed to his ability to manage expectations and focus on the present moment. He recognized that the expectations he had set for himself were becoming a burden, leading to disappointment and affecting his performance. By adjusting his mindset and learning to let go of these expectations, Gill has been able to play with greater freedom and confidence.The 24-year-old's batting position at No. 3 has presented him with a different set of challenges compared to his preferred opening role. While he has experience batting in the middle order in domestic matches, the added responsibility of setting the tone or rebuilding an innings requires a different approach. Gill has shown maturity and adaptability in handling these situations, demonstrating his versatility as a batsman.Gill's innings in Visakhapatnam and Rajkot exemplify his ability to adapt to different match situations. In Visakhapatnam, he marshaled India's second innings, batting for almost 48 overs and guiding the team to a respectable total. In Rajkot, he played a supporting role to Yashasvi Jaiswal's aggressive century, ensuring that India maintained their dominance in the match.Gill's resurgence is a positive sign for India as they look to consolidate their position in the World Test Championship. His ability to score big runs and play according to the situation makes him a valuable asset to the team. If he can continue to perform consistently, India will be well-positioned to achieve success in the upcoming matches and secure a place in the final of the World Test Championship.